Where is Murphysboro, Illinois

Murphysboro is a city in southern Illinois and the county seat of Jackson County. It sits about 55 miles southeast of St. Louis and 10 miles northwest of Carbondale. The city is known for its historic downtown, nearby Giant City State Park, and its connection to the Shawnee Hills. Murphysboro also serves as a regional center for education, agriculture, business, and outdoor recreation.

Location Map of Murphysboro, Jackson County, Illinois

About Map: The map shows the location of Murphysboro in Jackson County, in the U.S. state of Illinois.

Murphysboro Map, Illinois

Where is Murphysboro Located?

Murphysboro is a city located in Jackson County, Illinois, the United States. It lies in the southern part of Illinois, about 55 miles southeast of St. Louis, Missouri, and about 10 miles northwest of Carbondale. Anna is roughly 25 miles south, while Chester is about 35 miles west. Murphysboro is positioned near 37.765° North latitude and 89.335° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 7,093 residents. The city covers about 5.57 square miles, or 14.43 square kilometers, of land. Giant City State Park is one of the area's best-known attractions, with sandstone formations, hiking trails, forests, and scenic overlooks. Murphysboro is also closely connected with the Shawnee Hills and Shawnee National Forest. A unique fact about the city is that it was founded by Illinois politician and governor William H. Murphy in 1819 and became the county seat of Jackson County. Its location makes it an important gateway to southern Illinois outdoor attractions.

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Murphysboro City Facts

Distance from Murphysboro, IL to Nearby Cities

• Carbondale, IL – 10 miles (16 km)
• DeSoto, IL – 7 miles (11 km)
• Dowell, IL – 12 miles (19 km)
• Makanda, IL – 15 miles (24 km)
• Anna, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
• Du Quoin, IL – 28 miles (45 km)
• Marion, IL – 30 miles (48 km)
• Chester, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
• Centralia, IL – 60 miles (97 km)
• Mount Vernon, IL – 55 miles (89 km)
• Cape Girardeau, MO – 45 miles (72 km)
• Harrisburg, IL – 48 miles (77 km)
• Paducah, KY – 80 miles (129 km)
• St. Louis, MO – 55 miles (89 km)
• Belleville, IL – 60 miles (97 km)
• Columbia, MO – 145 miles (233 km)
• Evansville, IN – 115 miles (185 km)
• Springfield, IL – 125 miles (201 km)

Top Attractions in Murphysboro, IL

• General John A. Logan Museum – A historic museum dedicated to Civil War general and Illinois politician John A. Logan and the history of Murphysboro.
• Giant City State Park – A popular nearby park known for massive sandstone formations, hiking trails, rock climbing, camping, and scenic forests.
• Liberty Theater – A historic downtown theater and community landmark with roots dating to the early 20th century.
• Murphysboro Historic District – A downtown area with historic architecture, local businesses, restaurants, and community gathering places.
• Shawnee National Forest – A large public forest surrounding much of southern Illinois with hiking, fishing, camping, and scenic landscapes.
• Big Muddy River – The river passes near Murphysboro and provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation.
• Pomona Natural Bridge – A nearby sandstone natural bridge and scenic geological landmark in the Shawnee Hills.
• Makanda Boardwalk – A nearby historic wooden walkway through the village of Makanda, featuring local shops and art businesses.

Airports Near Murphysboro, IL

• Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA) – 35 miles
• Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI) – 50 miles
• MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) – 70 miles
• Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) – 35 miles
• Scott Air Force Base/MidAmerica Airport (BLV) – 70 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official Murphysboro city website and local government records.

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